With Mizzie Maxx
Photo by Trix Photography @trixphotography_
From childhood inspiration sparked by AC/DC to building a name in Brisbane’s thriving original music scene, Whitt’s End has been making waves with their energetic live shows and honest songwriting.
Brothers Saxon and Jarvis have already packed plenty into their musical journey, recently wrapping up dates on the Save It For Another Day tour alongside new drummer Nic. HEAVY‘s Mizzie Maxx caught up with the band to chat about their beginnings, life in Australia, unforgettable moments on stage, and what’s next.
MIZZIE: You both spent part of your childhood in Hong Kong before returning to Australia. What inspired the move, and how has it influenced you as musicians?
Whitt’s End: We did! We always planned to move back to Australia as we were born here, and Brisbane just seemed to have the best scene. Plus, we have some family out near here. We’ve definitely been more honest with our writing since that big life change.
MIZZIE: Having experienced both countries, what differences stand out most between the Hong Kong and Australian music scenes?
Whitt’s End: The Australian music scene has a lot more original music bands. People’s original music is more valued in Australia.
MIZZIE: When did you first discover your love of music, and what sparked that passion?
Whitt’s End: We started on guitars when we were like 5 and 6, after hearing AC/DC’s Back In Black on the Megamind soundtrack.
MIZZIE: Do you remember the very first song you ever wrote? Looking back, what was it about, and how do you feel about it now?
Whitt’s End: Hmmm, first song… I think mine (Saxon‘s) was a song called “All Right“. Pretty basic song, but it was good, man. It was just about how life’s tough, y’know, lyrics talking about how your parents call you a slob… but everything’s gonna be all right and don’t stress out. That was the vibe. I was probably 10. My worldview has definitely changed haha.
MIZZIE: Every band has a story about how its members came together. How did Nic join Whitt’s End, and when did you know he’d found his place in the band?
Whitt’s End: Nic joined the band only like three months ago. He gave us a text after watching us at Tomcat, which is a venue in Brisbane. ‘Twas like a match made in heaven. We’ve only ever had one rehearsal haha, but like 30+ gigs at this stage, I think.
MIZZIE: Being brothers, disagreements are probably inevitable. How do you manage those moments and keep the band moving forward?
Whitt’s End: Yeah, definitely disagreements happen, especially being brothers haha, but you know, you just get over it like any relationship in life… most of the time anyways…
MIZZIE: Every live musician has a story from the stage they’ll never forget. What’s been your biggest onstage disaster and how was it overcome?
Whitt’s End: Not sure if this counts as a disaster, but certainly a standout moment. I (Saxon) smashed my head accidentally on Jarvis’s guitar headstock and started bleeding profusely out of my forehead. I still finished the set though.
MIZZIE: Looking back on the Save It For Another Day tour, what have been some of the standout moments?
Whitt’s End: The Brisbane hometown show was amazing!! So great to be surrounded by so many people who came to the show, singing along and dancing. Also Wollongong went off. Can’t wait to get back down there.
MIZZIE: With the tour coming to an end, what’s next for Whitt’s End? Can fans expect new music or more touring, or something completely different?
Whitt’s End: Nope, just new music, and more touring. And music videos!
MIZZIE: You’ve built a strong reputation in Brisbane’s original music scene. What advice would you give to bands trying to gain momentum?
Whitt’s End: Never say no to a gig.
With the world at their feet, Whitt’s End have all the ingredients to make a serious impact. Having already packed out shows, built a strong social media following and earned a reputation for their down-to-earth attitude, it’s easy to see why they’re one of the Sunshine Coast’s most exciting rising acts. Don’t be surprised if you see these guys headlining stages around Australia, and the world soon to follow…
You can catch Whitt’s End live at The Presynct on the Sunshine Coast on August 14. If their current momentum is anything to go by, now is the perfect time to see them before another show sells out. Tickets https://tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/70cdfae8-e8f7-4fae-b6a6-c4b645934bff
